Community Goals

A technology evaluation effort should begin only after community leaders, sponsors, and stakeholders have clearly identified goals for the community. This means there should be consensus around how the community will create value for its membership and what the beneficial outcomes must be after one year, five years, and beyond. Any effort to begin such an initiative without this focus sets itself up for failure. Note also that the community’s purpose must be clear enough that potential members can grasp it and understand why they should become active members. The set of goals thus becomes an important member touchstone that guides participation and growth.